My friends we just got word that our
friend Irish has suffered a heart attack and is in
critical condition. Even though I have never spoken
to him except through this keyboard, I feel as if I
have known him for years. I am sure that many of you
feel the same way. I know that your prayers, as mine,
are with him.

Xan
at [Jan 8 13:11:57]: Oh God, Shotgun, that's awful about
Irish...where is he now, do you know? I remember he was
traveling around quite a lot recently.

shotgun
at [Jan 8 13:17:17]: Xan, all I know is what 1st Co sent up
just a while ago. Scroll down just a few posts.

Xan
at [Jan 8 13:19:35]: Okay Shotgun, I just was trying to
remember if he was still in Colorado or back in California. I
am still a little rusty on that prayer business, but will
send up the best one I can muster, for Irish....see ya later
then. :)

shotgun
at [Jan 8 13:23:20]: Not to worry about being rusty Xan. Like
riding a bicycle, you never forget how. Thanks. See ya later.

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 13:50:29]: Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Irish. -- *in and out*

Kady
at [Jan 8 14:00:58]: Afternoon Guys! My prayers go out to
both Irish and his family, and I'll have my Dad the Preacher
Man put in a few too.

shotgun
at [Jan 8 14:18:05]: Saber, did you scroll back and see the
notice about Irish. If not, you should do so.

Daze at
[Jan 8 14:21:09]: My prayers are for Irish. *in and out*

Saber at
[Jan 8 14:21:17] That is very bad news Shotgun. Mrs. Saber
and I will of course include him in our prayers. Do you know
if he was in California or not when this unfortunate event
occurred?

shotgun
at [Jan 8 14:22:36]: I have no idea Saber. The notice that
1st Co put up just a few posts prior to mine is all I know
right now.

Saber
at [Jan 8 14:24:07]: Please keep me informed Shotgun. I know
you know the respect and the esteem in which I held Mr.
Irish. I am very worried.

shotgun
at [Jan 8 14:25:32]: You better know Saber that this room
will know as soon as I know anything! I too, am quite
concerned.

Saber
at [Jan 8 14:27:56]: All we can do is pray for him and hope
that all turns out well Shotgun. It somehow just doesn't seem
enough does it? Do we know how old Mr. Irish is?

shotgun
at [Jan 8 14:29:53]: Nor sure about age Saber. I think he is
about 75. In this case I think prayer is the only thing we
can do. Sometimes we are just helpless.

Coy at
[Jan 8 14:31:30]: Afternoon all. I am very sorry to see the
news about Irish. My prayers are offered for him. *in and
out*

Saber
at [Jan 8 14:31:36]: Sorry folks this news is a very
unexpected shock for me as I am sure it is for you all. I
guess you are right Shotgun.

shotgun at
[Jan 8 14:32:06]: I say that about his age because he was in
the war very early (made the landing at Tarawa) so he was
probably between 18 and 20 when the war broke out in '41.

Saber
at [Jan 8 14:40:00] Again I apologize I am just stunned by
this news.

ks at
[Jan 8 14:41:29]: Just scrolled and saw the news about Irish.
He was in Colorado when we chatted within the past week. What
distressing news...he's in our prayers as well.

Saber
at [Jan 8 14:45:03]: Well you all I have had my shock for the
day. I must be returning to work though I don't much feel
like it. I know you will all include Mr. Irish in your
prayers. G'bye you all.

Kady at
[Jan 8 14:46:16]: bye Saber. Take Care.

shotgun
at [Jan 8 14:48:44]: See ya later Saber. Got to run for a
while myself. Be back later.

1st Co
at [Jan 8 15:29:14]: Doctor Ernest Butner passed away today
at 11:30 a.m. Mountain time. He was 76 years old. Old
soldiers never die they just fade away. I will be in contact
with the room when I can. The family thanks all of you for
your prayers and kind thoughts.

Kady at
[Jan 8 15:30:26]: Oh dear. Once again, my prayers and
condolences are with you and yours 1st Co.

Mohawk
at [Jan 8 15:30:50]: Hello everyone

AoT at
[Jan 8 15:31:14]: TRULY a sad sad message.My sincerest
condolences to the family of a most throughtful and gracious
man.

3rdLa
at [Jan 8 15:39:03]: We have lost a very professional and
most informative part of the forum today. Irish's wisdom will
sorely be missed by this group. Our hearts and thoughts are
surely with his family.

3rdLa
at [Jan 8 15:50:28]:

Irish

Irish is the name used by this individual on
the internet in WebAmerica's Civil War Chat Room. He is a
veteran of World War II and Korea and had planned on
making the military a career. He served in the Navy,
assigned to amphibious assaults for most of WWII.
However, he was wounded at Iwo Jima, and was transferred
to destroyers, and fought in the Phillipines and at
Okinawa. His destroyer, the USS Rowe is seen in many
photos from the deck of the Missouri. They led the ship
into Yokahama harbor for the signing of the treaty. Since
then, after nearly getting pushed off of the southern tip
of Korea, he volunteered for amphibious assaults and was
wounded severely at Inchon, loosing his left arm. His
military career plans were ruined so he went back to
college and eventually became a history professor at
Pepperdine University outside of Santa Monica, Ca. His
speciality is military history and has taught it for
nearly fifty years.

ks at
[Jan 8 15:52:21]: I just loved it when Irish would make the
comment about his being an "18 year old mind trapped in
a 75 (last year) old body". Trapped no more and free to
experience all God's love. Faugh a
balaugh... My sympathy to and prayers
for his family.

Dan'l at
[Jan 8 15:59:17]: I never communicated with Irish but it is
apparent from the brief biography and the depth of feeling
indicated on the previous messages that he was a man worth
knowing . My sympathy and prayers go out to his many
friends.. Dan'l

Daze at
[Jan 8 15:59:35]: Irish you will not be forgotten. Thanks for
all the information you gave so freely over the past year.I
will be on Okinawa in March, and you and the other veterans
who fought there will be remembered by me.

TJ
at [Jan 8 16:49:35]: It's hard to believe that we'll never
again see a post from Irish. He contributed much to this
room--from daily chatter to the informative discussions he
led on several Sunday evenings--and will be sorely missed.
For about two weeks last summer, Irish and I almost
exclusively inhabited the room during late-night. I was glad
to have him all to myself for several hours each night, and
remember being impressed with--but certainly not surprised
by--how incredibly thoughtful his posts were. Quite a loss.

Vader
at [Jan 8 16:51:55]: I just scrolled back and saw the sad
news about Irish. I remember seeing him in the room from time
to time and he WILL be missed. My sympathy goes out to his
family and to us, we have lost a good friend.

Vader
at [Jan 8 16:52:34]: Hey, Bretzky. How ya doing?.

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 16:53:02]: All right Vader. Been a sad afternoon
around here.

Vader
at [Jan 8 16:54:57]: Bretzky, when I saw the news about
Irish, my jaw dropped.

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 16:56:43]: Yeah, me too. I learned a lot from him
in this room.

Coy
at [Jan 8 17:18:57]: Friends, I have come to think of many of
you as 'family'. When I entered this room for the first time
Irish was here to welcome me around the fire. My thoughts and
prayers go out to his family. I will miss him. *in and out*

Chris
at [Jan 8 18:09:46] Yeah, I've never talked with him, but he
meant a lot to the people in here, and I do feel bad for
everyone. It definitely hurts to lose someone special.

Reno at
[Jan 8 18:51:05]: Hello, folks. I haven't been in the room
much in the past 6 months, but I just got some very sad news
about my old friend, Irish

Kady
at [Jan 8 18:51:29]: HIya Reno.

Coy
at [Jan 8 18:55:21]: Hello Reno....sad news indeed.

Reno
at [Jan 8 18:56:44]: Hi, Kady, Coy, and AoT. The room is
really slow on my end. Takes a long time to get each post.
Did you folks know Irish?

Coy at
[Jan 8 18:58:36]: Reno, I knew him from this room. He was one
of the first to welcome me around the fire.

AoT at
[Jan 8 18:58:47]: Reno I knew Irish from the room I am very
sorry to hear of his passing. I never personally met the man
but truly enjoyed his wisdom and dry wit.

shotgun
at [Jan 8 18:59:03]:

My Friend, Irish

As I sit here this evening
watching the outpouring of sympathy from all of our
members for a friend whom none of us had really seen,
yet knew as if he were our neighbor, I find myself
drifting back over the past year that Irish has been
amongst us. He was one who, if you took any five of
us and combined our experiences and qualifications,
could not approach his. Yet he was just as much at
home chatting with our youngest member as he was with
our oldest (me, next to him).

He was a true teacher. His
method of asking you a question, not seeking the
answer he already knew, but expecting you to tell him
your thoughts on the subject, was truly a gift. Even
though your answer may have been way off base he
would make you feel that it wasn't all that wrong, it
just wasn't entirely correct. Then he would proceed
to enlighten you.

It was not unusual for me
to turn on the computer and check my WebMail (Irish
didn't do much Email but he sure found out fast how
to use the WebMail system) and find a series of
questions concerning a subject that we had discussed
some days earlier, to which he fully expected me to
respond. I think he taught me more about researching
the war in the few short months that he was with us
that most of my previous teachers combined. He
absolutely would not take "I didn't have time to
look up the answer" as an excuse. He would
merely say "OK, I understand." Then proceed
to WebMail me constantly checking on the progress of
my research for the answer.

I am also convinced that he
visited my website every time he had a computer
available. I know that I could update it and not say
anything, yet he would congratulate me on my newest
addition and proceed to ask a series of questions on
the subject. An amazing feat.

Irish, my friend, I knew
you not, yet I loved you as a brother. Rest well
comrade, you have earned it. But know that you will
be sorely missed!

Kady
at [Jan 8 18:59:21]: Not personally, but there were times
when he was like a long-distance Grandpa to me.

ks
at [Jan 8 19:02:57]: Hi Reno (& all). As I recall those
first encounters with Irish and his choosing his name, I
laugh. Remember how he thought it should either be Irish or
"Old Fuddy Duddy"? THAT he certainly was NOT! Nice
to see you btw...

Reno
at [Jan 8 19:05:54]: Shotgun, thank you for posting that
wonderful tribute. I just found out about Irish, because Ks
was kind enough to send me an email. Irish was truly a
remarkable man, and a great friend. Having been mostly absent
from the room for the past few months, I feel an even greater
loss. The things I could have learned!!! -- An opportunity
missed.

Coy
at [Jan 8 19:09:52]: Shotgun...very well said. Thank you.

JADE
at [Jan 8 19:12:55]: Hello? *She walks meekly into the room*

Reno
at [Jan 8 19:13:04]: Hi, Ks. Thanks again for the email, and
passing along the sad news. I have an appointment right now,
but I'll stop back in later tonight.

ks
at [Jan 8 19:14:35]: You're welcome and DO come back, Reno. I
need to sign off shortly myself.

Reno
at [Jan 8 19:17:23]: Signing off for now, folks. But, I
promise, I'll be on later tonight (maybe around 9pm PST).
I'll try not to be such a stranger. Perhaps we can all share
our own stories about Irish. Shotgun, I hope you'll put a
special tribute to him on your web site. Anyway, I have to
run for now (dang!) See ya'll. Reno ***GONE***

JADE at
[Jan 8 19:20:46]: Thank-you AoT
Coy the pleasure is all mine. *She takes a seat and curls up
to keep warm.* What is the topic tonight?

ks
at [Jan 8 19:25:57]: I don't believe there is an official
topic yet this p.m. The death today of a forum regular has
taken the wind out of many sails here.shotgun,
your tribute to Irish was so very fitting...just as I
expected to see. :)

Matt at
[Jan 8 19:27:08]: Evenin' all, just heard the news about
Irish, most upsetting. Shotgun, your tribute posted at 1900
certainly described the man.

ks
at [Jan 8 19:27:22]: Greetings MAP.

JADE
at [Jan 8 19:27:35]: Ks who passed on?

MAP
at [Jan 8 19:28:22]: Hi, Fellow-Decaturite! Surely was sad
news to hear of Irish's passing. He was a brilliant fount of
knowledge to this forum. He will be missed. My condolences to
his family.

ks
at [Jan 8 19:29:53]: JADE - Professor Irish. He came on board
1/18 of last year. Incredible wealth of knowledge...gracious
gentleman.

JADE
at [Jan 8 19:31:02]: ks it sounds as though I have missed
meeting a great man. A true loss.

AoT
at [Jan 8 19:32:15]: As always it has been a pleasure folks
... yes the news of Irish's passing has had a very saddening
effect... I regret to say I really must go, I have a very
interesting week end plannesd at this end..I leave tomorrow
to spend the week end at the infamous "Coon Chicken
INN" a remote rustic cabin tucked away in Liberty Gap
Tenn. fair to say that although there is neither electricity,
running water or gas heat... large doses of Irish Whiskey,
ale and other spirits will be consumed.

Augie
at [Jan 8 19:43:01]: 21 gun salute and a bugle playing taps
for Irish, even know I didn't know him very well Augie

3rdLa
at [Jan 8 20:08:30]: Well, I think everyone is a little down
tonight. My thoughts are sure on Irish and his family
tonight.

Matt
at [Jan 8 20:11:40]: Yeah, I would think you're right, 3rd.
It's odd, one rarely meets the folks from the room, but lose
one and it's like losing someone you've known for years as a
personal friend.

MAP
at [Jan 8 20:13:21]: I'm back in to say "good
night" after a boot here. I just wanted to share one
thing about Irish though before leaving. He had so much to
share with all of us, yet he never let his handicap of only
having one hand to type with slow him down or discourage him.
He never complained. I admired him for this greatly. There
will be an empty seat at this campfire now, but his legacy
will long live.

3rdLa
at [Jan 8 20:16:27]: Very nicely put MAP, and so true, good
night Map

3rdLa
at [Jan 8 20:19:02]: A very fine gentleman he was, lot of
knowledge, lot of experience, glad I got to meet him, even if
only in forum, don't think anyone will come along with his
wisdom on military history.

3rdLa
at [Jan 8 20:21:26]: Good night ya'll, good night Irish
*gone*

Korky
at [Jan 8 20:43:28]: I just wanted to add that I was very
sorry to hear of Irish's passing. He was a great man who
taught me alot. I always could count on him to ask me about
the progress of my research on my uncle's story. He was most
interested and helpful. I quote him alot when I reflect on
whether or not the truth should be revealed when remembering
back 53 years ago. I'll never forget his perspectives as he
told about his war experiences and his search to learn more
about his son. I regret the fact that I was never able to
tell him about "my story" which he was most
interested in getting. I also regret that we'll never get to
meet him him in person at Gettysburg for the Longstreet
dedication. But deep down I know he'll be there. I wouldn't
be surprized if he went as a guest of Longstreet himself!

Farewell My Friend!

PHP
at [Jan 8 20:46:18]: Korky,...excuse me---I've been gone a
few days. Did Irish pass away???

Korky
[Jan 8 20:47:58]: PHP, 1stCo came in today early to anounce
that Irish had suffered a heart attack and then came on later
to say that Irish had died. ks webmailed me.

guest at
[Jan 8 20:48:38]: Longstreet on his right and Marse Robert on
his left, Korky

Korky at
[Jan 8 20:49:11]: You got that right!

PHP
at [Jan 8 20:53:46]: Korky,...thank you for letting us know.
I've just checked back along the posts and seen the others
talking about it. Very sad. It is odd how we (most of us)
don't know each other---yet we do know each other. I assign a
personality and appearance to each of ya'll. I think its
somehow better this way. I will miss Irish.

PHP
at [Jan 8 20:55:01]: Good evenin GC,...I just found out about
Irish passing away.

Greencoat
at [Jan 8 20:56:49]: I am sorry to hear about that PHP, I did
not know him unfortunately, but I understand that he was a
very kind person.

PHP
at [Jan 8 20:56:55]: Ya know....with this crew we should get
some Bailey's and throw a wake.Listenin to tha
"Chieftans"!

PHP
at [Jan 8 20:58:35]: Well GC,....I didn't know him
personally, like some here, but he was always pleasant, and
offering assistance here in the room to us newcomers.

Greencoat
at [Jan 8 20:58:45]: Sounds good to me PHP, but it looks like
it's just you and me right now.

Buford at
[Jan 8 21:05:10]: I just scrolled back, and saw the very bad
news. I am at a loss for words. 1st Co., if you see this,
please accept my condolences. We have all lost a good friend.

PHP
at [Jan 8 21:05:42]: Sorry GC,...forgot your location
exactly?

PHP
at [Jan 8 21:06:19]: Evenin Buford,...yes , it is sad news.

Buford
[Jan 8 21:10:58]: Hello, all. You see, about eight weeks ago,
I asked Irish to help me with something. My half of the
Buford manuscript is too long at almost 400 pages. I asked
Irish to read it for me to help me to identify places where I
could cut it down without losing anything. He took the task
very, very seriously, and I don't know if he finished it. I
do know that I am very fortunate to have him touch my work
and helpt make it better Ultimately, I am better for having
had the good fortune of crossing paths with him. I will miss
you, my friend.

Xan
at [Jan 8 21:15:42]: Hear, hear, Buford. God rest his soul,
Irish was a lucky man..alert, working, involved, happy by all
accounts, and then BOOM. Final curtain. We all gotta go
sometime, and there are many worse ways to do it. I raise a
glass to him. ;~)

Buford
[Jan 8 21:16:37]: I am not much of a drinking man, Xan,
but for a change, I think I will join you. To you, Ernie.
Your friends will miss you.

BJ at
[Jan 8 21:19:56]: Good evening all--I'm saddened to hear of
Irish's passing..He was very helpful when I first came to
this website a few months ago, and told me of his great
grandfather's experience at Andersonville....Our prayers and
deepest condolences to his family and friends...May God Bless
Him.

Bretzky at
[Jan 8 21:20:07]: I'm afraid so Buford. It has been a lousy
day all round today!

Buford at
[Jan 8 21:20:39]: I was in court for almost 8 1/2 hours
today, Brett, so I just found out a few minutes ago.

Xan at
[Jan 8 21:20:55]: Buford, it's funny, today was the first
time I knew Irish's right name. I am so glad that at such an
awful time, 1stCo had the thoughtfulness to let us know of
events. Lord knows I would not be likely to have such
presence of mind! *clinking glass with Buford*

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 21:21:51]: 1stCo told us about the heart attack
this morning, then returned to tell us of Irish's passing
this afternoon.

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:21:56]: I agree, Xan. I guess 1st Co. figured
that Ernie would have wanted us to know. I know I am grateful
to him for letting us know.

Xan
at [Jan 8 21:23:43]: Heya Bretz, BJ, Frog..welcome to the
wake. Dirges, toasts and funny stories about Irish are all in
order and officially on topic! ;)

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:27:40]: The thing that always amazed me about
him was the depth of his knowledge. I know a little bit, but
I am and always have been both amateur and civilian. Ernie
was both professional historian and career warrior. The depth
of his knowledge was truly awe inspiring to me. The man could
discuss almost anything having to do with military history
and be conversant about that. To this day, I have always been
in awe of that about him. There are only a handful of people
that I have permitted to read the Buford manuscript, but
there was never a question about letting Ernie read it--it
just seemed to be the natural thing to do, and I was and am
very grateful that he took the time to do it for me. 1st Co.
once told me that Ernie spent an hour or two on it every
morning, that he had taken his homework assignment very, very
seriously indeed. We all lost something today, I think.

TreeFrog at
[Jan 8 21:27:47]: Xan I'm sorry to say I didn't know Irish
all that well. He never seemed to be in when I was and when
he was we just never had a chance to really talk.

ms morgan
at [Jan 8 21:27:47]: I must head out also (children are
requesting the presence of my company,to read a story
tonight)catch you all later.

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:28:26]: See you later, ms. morgan. Give them a
special hug tonight.

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 21:29:38]: Been scrolling back. Some kind words to
our dear friend. Goodbye to those who left in the past few
minutes.

Xan at
[Jan 8 21:33:28]: See ya ms morgan..Frog, I know what ya
mean, I was never around when Irish was nearly as much as I
wish I could have been. It was worth it to get on after he'd
been here and read what he told somebody else, though. ;)

fifer
at [Jan 8 21:34:06]: Buford. I'm very sorry also to hear of
Irish's passing. My fondest memory of him was his accounts of
driving the 2nd Marines division ashore under harrowing
machine gun fire at Red Beach at Tarawa. He was a hero at
time time when heros were needed. He also lost a son in
Vietnam. I will miss him very much.

Saber
at [Jan 8 21:34:11]: Good evening folks. Has there been any
other word on my friend Mr. Irish?

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:34:30]: That's for sure, Xan. That's for sure.

TreeFrog
at [Jan 8 21:35:27]: Xan that's true. I'd have to agree with
Buford. The One thing that always shocked me about Irish is
no matter how outragious or arkward the discussion or
question He could always come up with an apropriate and
intellgent responce. Most of the time when I was in with him
I didn't really say anything cause, I hate to say this, I was
afraid I'd look like a fool next to him. :-)

Saber
at [Jan 8 21:35:33]: I just scrolled back. I will return in a
few minutes.

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 21:35:38]: Sorry Saber. He did not make it.

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:35:56]: That makes two of us, fifer. No, Saber,
we're just reminiscing about our missing comrade. If I may,
allow me to suggest that we play and listen to "The
Vacant Chair" some time tonight?

fifer
at [Jan 8 21:37:03]: I'll play it on the fife now. I wish you
all could hear me.

cwc3
at [Jan 8 21:37:04]: I just read today's posts. How can we
send condolences to Irish's family, and if not to late, has
there been a post as to where to send flowers?

Bretzky at
[Jan 8 21:38:01]: I haven't seen anything yet cwc3, but
hopefully someone will post an address.

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:38:39]: Do that for us, fifer. I suspect we will
all be able to hear it. cwc3, I sent an e-mail to shotgun to
see if he knows the answer to just that question. How are
you, general, by the way?

BJ
at [Jan 8 21:40:18]: Did Irish have a favorite charity or
cause that would accept memorial donations?

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:40:48]: We don't know, BJ. We are trying to find
out things like that.

Xan
at [Jan 8 21:46:33]: Saber, I'm sorry, I thought i had seen
your name on after 1stCo posted the bad news. I wonder what
other projects Irish had in the works besides his
collaborations with you and Buford? Bet ya dollars to
doughnuts there were dozens...with former students, buddies,
historians. I remember right after I got on the board, he was
off to a professional historians conference...on the Middle
Ages! He was like a kid in a candy shop learning new
stuff...;)

Saber
at [Jan 8 21:47:17]: I think it was the discussions he and I
used to have Buford. His depth of knowledge always kept me on
my toes. I just thought that this article I am working on is
because of him. If it gets published I wonder if they would
allow me to dedicate it to him.

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:47:53]: Irish and 1st Co. and Dracon had found
this fabulous manuscript on the Battle of Cold Harbor that
Buckshot is doing the maps for. He was very excited about it,
and was really enjoying working with it to bring this story
out so that people could enjoy it and appreciate it.

BJ
at [Jan 8 21:48:23]: Did Irish have any of his work
published?

Buford at
[Jan 8 21:48:35]: I am sure they will, Saber. Just tell them
the reason, and I am sure that they will.

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:49:05]: BJ, I don't rightly know, although my
guess is that the answer is certainly yes.

Bretzky at
[Jan 8 21:49:16]: I think that dedication would be very
fitting Saber.

Buford at
[Jan 8 21:50:13]: Indeed, Xan. We are planning on publishing
it, once it's ready. I am going to see to it that it's
dedicated to Ernie's memory.

Xan at
[Jan 8 21:51:11]: Buford, what was Ernie's last name again?

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:51:37]: His name was Ernie Butner.

Saber at
[Jan 8 21:52:22]: Buford, it is a good thing that the first
draft is finished. I don't know if I would have completed it
if this tradegy had occured at an earlier date. You know
Buford Ernie made me think. Damn I'm going to miss that.

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:52:48]: That makes two of us, Saber.

Xan at
[Jan 8 21:53:16]: Thanks, Buford, BRB.

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:53:20]: Saber, see my post at 21:27:40.

cwc3
at [Jan 8 21:54:56]: How could I get up with 1st Co.? Would
he have any further information?

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:55:49] All I have for him is a snail mail
address, cwc3. Not much good under these circumstances.
Sorry.

TreeFrog
at [Jan 8 21:56:49] I think one of my proudest moments in
here was after a discussion on the constitution and the
legality of Secession, I don't remember who with. I finished
my statements and then left. I hung around awhile, as I
always do, and saw Irish say "That kid has a lot of
potential. He'll go places." I don't know why but for
some reason that meant something a little extra coming from
him.

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:57:20] He said that to me, Froggie, and he meant
it.

cwc3
at [Jan 8 21:57:21]: Hopefully, Shotgun will reply soon.

Xan at
[Jan 8 21:57:56]: Any chance of getting an address through
Pepperdine?

TreeFrog at
[Jan 8 21:58:20]: Buford, was Irish married?

Buford
at [Jan 8 21:58:52]: I believe so, Froggie. I am pretty sure
I remember him mentioning his wife.

Xan at
[Jan 8 21:59:22]: Frog, remember that and pass it on someday.
You never know how that sort of karma works, it can turn
somebody's life around. ;~)

Buford at
[Jan 8 22:00:12]: That's awfully good advice, Xan. May I be
so bold as to suggest that you say something of his passing
in CWI, Xan?

BAMdux
at [Jan 8 22:01:03]: I'm sorry but what has happened that I'm
in the dark about?

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:02:02]: Buford, y'know, I've been kicking that
around all day? I may have to boot Javal out of the Editorial
column once i figure out how to say it. Thanks for the nudge.
;)

Buford
at [Jan 8 22:02:20]: Our friend IRish passed away today,
BAMdux. We have all lost a special friend today.

Buford
at [Jan 8 22:02:50]: You're most welcome, Xan. I think it
would be most appropriate.

BAMdux at
[Jan 8 22:05:06]: It is a sad day to here of a persons death
and though I didnt know the man personally his family is in
my heart and prayers.

Buford
at [Jan 8 22:05:22]: Xan, if you need some input, I
would be honored to help. It's the least I can do.

Saber at
[Jan 8 22:07:27]: He was a very special man BAMdux. He
touched many in this room and will be missed greatly.

TreeFrog
at [Jan 8 22:08:37]: Sorry Got bumped.
Buford I don't know why but for some reason that stuck in my
head. I don't know why I remember it. I remember it and
saying Dang if Irish thinks that, who knows. Of all the
people in this room he was the one that I looked up to most.
For some reason I just remembered that.
Xan that's true. At the time that he said that I was
questioning what to do, in the future. After that I kinda
thought, yeah I can be a teacher. :-) I guess that sounds
kinda cheesy huh?

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:08:48]: BAMdux, aside from 1stCo and
Dracon, who were his sons-in-law, I don't know that there's a
person in this room who ever laid eyes on Irish. He didn't
even hang and chat and socialize for hours on end. When he
graced us with his presence though....I'm trying to think of
a comparison. It was like having Robert E. Lee just show up
unexpectedly on your doorstep to have a cup of tea and talk.
The experience and wisdom was all there.

Buford at
[Jan 8 22:09:29]: Folks, I spent over eight very intense
hours trying a case today and I am mentally and physically
exhausted. Finding out about our friend's loss hasn't helped
that much. I think I need to call it a night and try to get
some sleep. I will say a prayer for Ernie and his family
tonight, and I hope that you all will, too.

BAMdux at
[Jan 8 22:09:48]: If there is anything I can do to be of
service just feel free to contact me.

Saber
at [Jan 8 22:09:56]: That's not cheesy at all TF.

Buford
at [Jan 8 22:10:16]: Well said, Xan. Froggie, I would be
honored by that, too.

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 22:10:42]: Good night Buford. Irish and his family
will definitely be in our prayers.

BJ
at [Jan 8 22:10:50]: Good Night Buford.

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:11:05]: Buford, yeah, that would be a help. Any
basic bio information, beyond what Shotgun has up on his
page, thanks.

TreeFrog at
[Jan 8 22:11:16]: Buford. I've never been one for praying,
but I'll try tonight. Good Night.

Saber
at [Jan 8 22:11:19]: G'nite Buford. Take care my friend.

Buford
at [Jan 8 22:11:28]: Sure, Xan. I will pass on what I can
tomorrow.

Buford
at [Jan 8 22:12:25]: Good night all. And good night to you,
too, Ernie. I hope that you're in a better place now. Buford
is *gone*

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:12:40]: Night Buford..whenever you get the
chance. Take care.

Coy
at [Jan 8 22:13:05]: G'night Buford. Coy

BAMdux
at [Jan 8 22:13:12]: I surely will do that my friend Buford.

Saber
[Jan 8 22:18:49]: Xan, it would be very nice if you could
some kind of piece on the CWI about Ernie. I was there today
and found that I have to have some more respect for Zolli as
he is now published.

MAP
at [Jan 8 22:19:06]: Good evening. I was just reading
tonight's posts before tucking in. So many sincere things
have been shared by forum members tonight about Irish. The
world of the internet is very new to all of us and this
certainly is a first for me to lose a cyber friend this way.
I cannot help but wonder if it would be appropriate for
Shotgun, since he has access to the posts, to put together
the condolences and memories posted here and forward them to
Irish's family. I know they will receive numerous sympathies
from many sources, but he was so highly regarded by forum
members also. Perhaps they would enjoy reading how he touched
so many lives in such a positive manner. Any thoughts on the
appropriateness of this?

cwc3 at
[Jan 8 22:19:22]: I got an e-mail from Shotgun, and he said
that 1st Co should be in the room tomorrow and give
additional information.

Coy
at [Jan 8 22:19:25]: Xan, I've been here all the time. Just
sitting reading the posts and reflecting on what is being
said. C

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 22:20:18]: Thanks for the update cwc3.

TreeFrog
at [Jan 8 22:20:46]: MAP I would support that 100%.

BAMdux
at [Jan 8 22:20:58]: A fine idea Map.

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:22:21]: Hi MAP...both Shotgun and ks have the
talent and the hard-drive space to save every post from
today, edit out the irrelevancies, and send the remainder to
Irish's family. Somehow I suspect one or both of them was on
this before we even thought to mention it. ;)

BJ
at [Jan 8 22:22:55]: Map, I think his family would find
alot of comfort from that....Great Idea!!

Saber
at [Jan 8 22:23:15]: Thanks CWC3. Map its a great idea.

BAMdux
at [Jan 8 22:26:02]: Well ladies and gentlemen I must leave
for this evening, but I will leave with these words in Latin
in rememberence of a good person lost to a better place.
(BAMdux valere iubere insignem amicmum) or BAMdux bids
goodbye to a distinguished friend.

BAMdux
at [Jan 8 22:26:23]: BAMdux is *gone*

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:26:47]: Now here's MY suggestion...when 1stCo
gives us some idea of what form Irish would have wanted
memorial contributions to take, maybe we could coordinate
them some way? Figure out how to phrase it that sounds more
elegant than "From All His Cyber-Buddies at
Aceweb"?

BJ
at [Jan 8 22:26:48]: Well I have to get going...Take care
everyone...and thanks.

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:29:12]: Take care BAMdux, BJ, Frog...just
remember Irish is having a rough time at the moment too, he
has to get used to having two arms again after 40 years
without one. ;)

MAP at
[Jan 8 22:29:31]: I'd offer to help. but being computer
illiterate, the burden is going to have to fall on the
shoulders of others if it is decided that this what people
want to do. It was just a suggestion. I really do need to
retire now, but to the entire Butner family, know Irish will
be missed by people who respected his knowledge and
kindnesses here in this camp. My sincerest condolences to
each of you in your loss today.

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 22:30:23]: Leave it to Xan to find a silver lining
in this dark cloud. :-)

acj
at [Jan 8 22:30:58]: Excuse my intrusion, but what happened
to Irish?

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 22:31:01]: Take care MAP.

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:32:17]: See ya MAP...hi acj, Irish had a heart
attack and died this morning. It was evidently very quick and
he did not suffer or linger.

Saber
at [Jan 8 22:34:05]: I am going to head out myself. Xan you
will let me know what plans are made, won't you. I would like
to say a final good night to Ernie. I know that as you sit
with God you will watch over our discussions. Perhaps at
times a smile will come to your face from what we discuss.
You will see how you influenced all that share our fire. A
final salute to you my friend. May God rest your soul. G'nite
all.

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 22:34:50]: G'nite Saber.

acj
at [Jan 8 22:34:53]: I have not been a frequent visitor to
this site since september, but I have had several chats with
Irish. I don't know what to say except that I'm shocked.

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:36:22]: You betcha, Saber. ;) G.night.

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 22:37:00]: I too am going to head to bed and put
this somber day behind me. Goodbye Mr. Irish, you will be
missed. G'nite y'all.

Coy
at [Jan 8 22:37:38]: G'night, Saber.

Bretzky
at [Jan 8 22:38:06]: *gone*

Coy
at [Jan 8 22:38:33]: Bretzky...see ya.

Xan at
[Jan 8 22:38:59]: acj, there have been folks dropping in all
day who haven't been here in a long time, who heard about
Irish from other sources or email or something. It has been a
shock to us all, believe me. Despite the man being 76, he
just seemed like one of those who would go on forever.

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:40:46]: See ya Bretz, she said to his vacated
portion of log..;)

Xan at
[Jan 8 22:41:52]: Will do cwc3, although I'm sure it will get
to Shotgun first. This news hit him hard, he hasn't been well
himself lately; I'm sure he'll keep us all informed.

Coy
at [Jan 8 22:43:06]: Xan, Isn't that amazing. How Irish has
touched so many of us that we feel compelled to come from
around the country, the world even, to pay our respects.
Cannot tell me that he has not influenced us.

Zolli at
[Jan 8 22:44:03]: To those of us in the South, no finer
compliment can be paid a man than to refer to him as a
"gentleman." In memory of Irish,
gentleman-historian. God bless.

Melon at
[Jan 8 22:44:52]: Evening all. Just dropped by to lurk a
minute and saw the news. Though I don't know any of you and
most of you I've never even spoken with, I feel in a strange
sort of way I know something about you all. This was true of
Irish , and I ,as you, will surely miss his invaluable input
to this group. I am somehow reminded of how Irish sorta
resembles George Bailey in that he obviously touched many
lives with little or no knowledge of having done so, only in
real life, unlike the character George, he got to be a war
hero too. Seems to me a bell just rang somewhere.

acj
at [Jan 8 22:45:45]: I extend my condolences to Irish's
friends and loved ones. He did indeed touch many people. He
will be in my prayers.

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:48:54]: Coy, Zolli, Melon, you all said it
exactly right, each in your own way. I did a brief search
earlier and was unable to find any books attributed to Ernest
Butner. I'm sure there are some out there with his name on
them, but I am very sure that there are dozens or hundreds
more with his name in a dedication, or a "thanks
to", or no attribution at all that he nonetheless
contributed to. And all from a guy who, by rights, should
have been one of the anonymous dead at Tarawa.

Coy
at [Jan 8 22:51:29]: Xan,I guess there was a 'plan'.

TreeFrog
at [Jan 8 22:52:09]: Xan God put's every one on Earth to
acomplish something. He had plans for Irish when he lead him
through Tarawa. If life is indeed a test, Irish passed with
flying colours. - *back for awhile*

Xan
at [Jan 8 22:58:29]: Heya Frog...I am reconsidering that last
line (of my last longwinded post I mean) and wish I had said
"could" have been one of the dead, instead of
"should". What I meant was, every one of those boys
dead in the surf, from Tarawa to Normandy, could have gone on
to lives as full of learning and teaching as Irish's was. He
got the chance and took it; others got the chance and built a
country and bred a Baby Boom; others lived through it bodily
but wound up in VA psych wards where my dad worked. Frog,
maybe you're right, it is all God's plan, but i have never
been too comfortable blaming the Deity for what we humans
screw up on our own. *rambling*

29mo
at [Jan 8 22:58:54]: Farwell to a hero. To those who have
fought for it, freedom has a taste the protected will never
know. Goodbye to Irish, with thanks for what he did for us.

Xan
at [Jan 8 23:02:09]: Heya 29mo, welcome to the tail-end of
the wake. Nice quote you had there sir, thanks. ;)

Coy
at [Jan 8 23:03:20]: Xan, no apologies needed. **Hi, 29mo. We
are a somber group tonight**

TJ
at [Jan 8 23:04:42]: Evening folks.

Coy at
[Jan 8 23:05:25]: Evening TJ.

Xan at
[Jan 8 23:11:23]: Heya TJ.

29mo at
[Jan 8 23:11:32]: I can understand, Coy. We have a lost
brother, a teacher, a scholar. One who willingly put himself
in harm's way so that we may be here now, enjoying our
freedom, our prosperity, our ease. His passing is to be not
merely mourned, but also celebrated in honor of his life of
contributions. We shall meet, but we will miss him.
Hopefully, he will continue to exist through all of us. Shall
we sll make it to 76.

TJ
at [Jan 8 23:11:49]: Hi Coy, Xan.

Coy at
[Jan 8 23:13:07]: Well, I guess I will leave at this time.
G'night to all.

Xan
at [Jan 8 23:13:47]: You got that part right for sure 29mo.
What Irish taught, lives on. And teaches others, like Frog
was saying earlier.May we all do as well..whether we last
that long or not. ;)

Xan
at [Jan 8 23:14:54]: See ya Coy, in fact I'll be right behind
you. It's been a long day all..see ya tomorrow TJ, 29mo. ;)

TJ at
[Jan 8 23:19:21]: I'll monitor for a bit.

guest
at [Jan 8 23:52:11]:

We shall meet but we shall miss
him
There will be one vacant space
We shall linger to caress him<br>
While we breath our evening prayer

When around the fire we gathered
Joy was in his kindly eyes
But a golden chord is severed
And our hopes in ruin lie

At our fireside, sad and lonely
Often will the bosom swell
At remembrance of the story
As our hero Irish told

How he strove to bear our banner
Through the thickest of the fight
And uphold our country's honor
In the strength of manhood's night

True, they tell us wreaths of
glory
Ever more will deck his brow
But this soothes the anguish only
Sweeping o'er our heartstrings now

Sleep today, o early fallen
In thy green and narrow bed
Dirges from the Cyber Forum
Mingle with the tears we shed

We shall meet but we shall miss
him
There will be one vacant space
We shall linger to caress him
While we breathe our evening prayer
--Ernest Butner--

Reno at
[Jan 9 00:32:18]: Whoever it was that posted "Empty
Chair," Thank you. I'm certain that Irish would be
moved, as well.

ks
at [Jan 9 00:35:46]: Hi Reno.

Reno
at [Jan 9 00:41:04]: Hi, Ks. Good to see you this evening.
The room is still slow, isn't it?

Reno
at [Jan 9 00:43:00]: I meant to add, that was a very nice,
and fitting "variation" on "Empty Chair."

ks at
[Jan 9 00:43:52]: I think many have taken leave with their
private thoughts tonight. Doesn't quite seem real to me yet.
I've been reflecting on the word 'mentor' and how perfectly
it applies to Irish.

ks at
[Jan 9 00:49:41]: mentor -
A wise and trusted teacher, guide, and friend. Yes, that was
IMO what Irish was to this forum . What an impact he's made
this past year.

Reno
at [Jan 9 00:53:43]: I just scrolled back a ways, and
discovered that Irish's name was Ernie Butner. That's
something I didn't know.

ks at
[Jan 9 00:59:24]: Nor did I, Reno. In fact I was pretty sure
it was something else! Must have gone astray with the notes
that night. ;) I really need to get upstairs and attend to
somethings. It is so good to see your handle here. I hope
you'll be able to get back in more regularly. While there's
always an education to be had, some of the Sunday p.m.
discussions have been VERY good. One slated for January 18th
I do believe! Take care...

Reno at
[Jan 9 00:59:28]: Yes, ks, I'm kind of in shock, myself. I'm
remembering the time I told Irish that my father's WWII Army
jacket was hanging a few feet from where I sat at the
computer. Irish asked me, "Does it have a 'Ruptured
Duck' on it?" Well, I had no idea what that was. Then he
described it as an gold eagle pin that was given to any
soldier who served in a combat zone. Well, there was, indeed
a "Ruptured Duck" on my dad's jacket. I would never
have known the significance of that without Irish. I'll think
of him, along with my dad, every time I see that jacket.

Reno
at [Jan 9 01:02:24]: Good night, ks. Thanks once more for
letting me know. I'll be back more often. G'nite.

Peter Griffith
at [Jan 9 01:42:21]: Goodmorning to all, Tonight I found the
loss of another friend. This year I have lost two whom I felt
close to. One I knew very well and another that I had never
met but felt as though I had known him all my life. I will
miss the professor in the room and on my e-mail circuit. Him
and I never met eye to eye on most matter when it came to
politics and the like. Yet we would always walk away friends.
This type of person is hard to find. Most whom you do not
agree with call you an enemy and treat you as such. Not
Irish. One remark he made to me onece that I will always
remember is "I would enjoy having you for a student Mr.
Griffith because you are controversal and will stand your
ground for what is right and what you believe in. Though I
think you are wrong I admire you for this trait" I will
miss talking to this man. I could dwell not only in the
American Civil War but we would talk the English Civil War,
Spanish Civil War ancient history ect. Few people in my life
(other than my wife) are as knowlegable in the areas of
history as a whole. My favorite was the discussing the usage
of american aircraft in daylight bombing of WW II. Of course
me against and him for it. He was a good man and I would have
like to have gotten my history classes from him. Goodbye old
man. Go now and be with the other 18 year olds that stormed
the beachs and fought the sea battles of the Pacific to give
me the freedom to come and go, speak and think as I wish and
not have to worry about being silenced for what I believe in.
Rest now and sleep for awhile with Gods lap as your pillow. I
will miss you.

Jen (from
Texas) at [Jan 9 04:20:51]:
Goodmorning all, I haven't posted in here in quite a while,
but I was terribly saddened by the news of Irish's passing,
and I wanted to share my thoughts. He was a great guy, who
warmly welcomed me in here when I first discovered the forum.
I very much enjoyed my late night chats with him a few months
back. He was always very informative and made me feel like I
also had something to contribute to the discussions. His
knowledge of all aspects of the Civil War was inspiring, but
I was especially touched the times he shared his experiences
of Tarawa, and when he spoke of his son. He always prompted
chatters to do more reading and research, and I think he gave
the younger folks in the room a great deal of encouragement.
I felt honored when he sent me his and 1st Co.'s and Dracon's
manuscript on Fredricksburg, and asked my opinion. I know he
wanted to go to the Longstreet Dedication in Gettysburg,
perhaps he will still be there along with those in the Forum
who get to go. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family.
Irish was a true American hero and will be greatly missed.

Kady
at [Jan 9 07:42:50]: Good Morning all. As I stumbled around
the house this morning, in silent anguish, I was listening to
the Gettysburg soundtrack, and would like to dedicate Track
number 8, "From History to Legend" to our dearly
beloved Irish. In my mind, no song, nor title fits him
better, we were all fortunate enough to cross paths with an
inspiring man. We knew his history (a bit at least) and we
shared history with him. We are now left not to weep for him,
but are here to carry on his legend. *in and out*